Synopses & Reviews

Synopsis

Mel Bay Publications, Inc., in conjunction with Chanterelle presents the first of two volumes of short chamber music works for pupils of all ages in their first years of study. The music is mainly descriptive, idiomatic and easy, frequently using dramatic elements. The didactic aim is the practice of instrumental ensemble playing. At a personal level the music contains small musical and technical challenges, such as notes or passages in high positions, natural harmonics, and dynamic changes as well as basic articulation techniques, basic timbrical elements, and other colorful effects typical of contemporary music. All the works are constructed so that the first two guitars contain the essence of the music, while the third and fourth guitars add dimension and color to the ensemble. This means that each work can be played as a duo, trio, or quartet. The works are also perfectly adaptable for larger ensembles. Written in standard notation only.